Why I run

Many wonder why I run. I had originally been overweight my whole life. As a child and adult, I was anywhere between 40-60 pounds overweight. Following my mom's death ten years ago, at age 35, I began to live a healthy life. I was fueled by my mom's suffering from the cancer treatments, knowing any discomfort I was experiencing was nothing compared to what she endured. Being too large to feel comfortable at a gym, I walked l hour in the morning and 1 hour in the evening. I ate only the foods I could control and avoided anything that one bite would not suffice. 4 months later I was down 40 pounds and able to start my running journey. I joined MIT's gym and began running on a treadmill. I was slow (I'm still slow), but I am out there doing it. Soon I was running 3 miles and more weight came off. I raced in some local 5Ks, did a sprint triathalon and even ran a half marathon with my brother, Danny who was always my idol when it came to fitness. My goal is never to win, but rather to finish. A year after I started my weight loss journey I was down 60 pounds and actively going to the gym 5 days a week. Seeking new ways to challenge my body and mind.

Ten years later, I am older and it is getting harder to keep my weight down, but I firmly believe that if you really want something and you have a clear plan to get it, you can accomplish it! We the Dana Farber Marathon Challenge members run for many reasons. I am running because I don't want to see anyone I love suffer from cancer. With each step and each donation, I know that I'm doing all I can so that you and your loves ones don't suffer as my mom did!

Join me at the finish line! Together we can help find better treatments and a possible cure for cancer.